The Bristol Bears are set for an exciting matchup against Gloucester Rugby in the latest round of the Gallagher Premiership. This highly anticipated West Country derby will take place at Ashton Gate, with kickoff scheduled for 7:45 PM on Friday. Fans can watch the game live on TNT Sports.
Team News for Bristol Bears
Joe Batley makes a notable return from his thumb injury, starting in the second row. He will team up with Bristolian James Dun. The absence of Steven Luatua, who is injured, sees Joe Owen moving to the back row. Benjamin Grondona continues at number eight, filling in for Viliame Mata, who has a season-ending knee injury.
Unchanged Front Row
Bristol’s front row remains intact, featuring Ellis Genge and George Kloska alongside Gabriel Oghre. Kieran Marmion steps in as scrum half, partnering with Scotland international Tom Jordan.
Midfield and Backline Changes
In the midfield, James Williams and Benhard Janse van Rensburg will start. Rich Lane returns from injury, taking over at fullback for Louis Rees-Zammit, who is also out due to injury. The wings will be occupied by Kalaveti Ravouvou and Gabriel Ibitoye.
Bristol Bears Squad for the Clash
| Position | Player | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | Rich Lane | 66 |
| 14 | Kalaveti Ravouvou | 50 |
| 13 | Benhard Janse van Rensburg | 68 |
| 12 | James Williams | 71 |
| 11 | Gabriel Ibitoye | 69 |
| 10 | Tom Jordan | 15 |
| 9 | Kieran Marmion | 70 |
| 1 | Ellis Genge | 73 |
| 2 | Gabriel Oghre | 61 |
| 3 | George Kloska | 80 |
| 4 | James Dun | 64 |
| 5 | Joe Batley | 90 |
| 6 | Joe Owen | 59 |
| 7 | Fitz Harding (c) | 116 |
| 8 | Benjamin Grondona | 36 |
Substitutes Available
- Harry Thacker (153 apps)
- Jake Woolmore (181 apps)
- Max Lahiff (123 apps)
- Steele Barker (10 apps)
- Luka Ivanishvili (9 apps)
- Harry Randall (159 apps)
- Matias Moroni (10 apps)
- Noah Heward (38 apps)
Unavailable Players
The Bears will miss several key players due to injuries including:
- Jimmy Halliwell
- Paddy Pearce
- Pedro Rubiolo
- Kenzie Jenkins
- Santi Grondona
- Steven Luatua
- Viliame Mata
- AJ MacGinty
- Jack Bates
- Louis Rees-Zammit
- Josh Carrington
- Evan Morris
This matchup against Gloucester presents a significant challenge for the Bristol Bears, who aim to secure a pivotal win in their season. Fans are eager to see the team perform under the Friday Night Lights at Ashton Gate.
